Hepatitis A is a liver infection spread through contaminated food and water — common where sanitation is poor. A simple blood test tells you whether you have a current infection or are already immune.
A reactive IgM means recent infection; IgG alone means past exposure or vaccination
Method
Antibody Immunoassay
About the Test
Two Antibodies, Two Answers
Your body makes different antibodies at different stages of hepatitis A. Testing for both tells us whether the infection is happening now, happened in the past, or whether you are protected.
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HAV IgM — Current Infection
IgM antibodies appear early and fade within months. A reactive HAV IgM together with symptoms such as jaundice, dark urine, nausea and fatigue confirms recent or acute hepatitis A.
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HAV IgG — Immunity
IgG antibodies appear later and stay for life. A positive IgG with a negative IgM means past infection or vaccination — you are protected.
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Vaccination Decision
If you have no antibodies, hepatitis A vaccination is recommended, especially before travel, for food handlers, and for people with chronic liver disease.
When to Test
Five Reasons to Get a Hepatitis A Test
01
Yellow Eyes or Skin (Jaundice)
Jaundice with dark urine and pale stools needs urgent liver investigation. Hepatitis A is one of the commonest causes of acute jaundice.
02
Nausea, Vomiting and Loss of Appetite
Sudden nausea, right-sided abdominal pain, fever and marked tiredness can be early signs of hepatitis A.
03
Contact With an Infected Person
Household or close contacts of a confirmed case should be tested and considered for vaccination.
04
Food Handlers and Caterers
Many employers require proof of hepatitis A status for people who prepare or serve food.
05
Before Travel or Vaccination
Check whether you are already immune before paying for a vaccine, and confirm immunity for travel to high-risk areas.
Hepatitis A Interpretation
IgM +, IgG −
Acute infection
IgM −, IgG +
Immune
IgM −, IgG −
Not immune
IgM +, IgG +
Recent infection
⚕️ Hepatitis A usually clears on its own and does not become chronic, but it can make you very unwell. Rest, fluids and medical review are important — do not take unprescribed herbal remedies.
Preparation
How to Prepare for Your Hepatitis A Test
Preparation is simple — a standard blood sample is all we need.
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No Fasting Needed
You can eat and drink normally before a hepatitis A antibody test.
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Tell Us Your Symptoms
Mention jaundice, dark urine, fever, recent travel, or contact with a confirmed case so results are interpreted properly.
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Medication and Vaccination History
Tell us if you have had a hepatitis A vaccine or immunoglobulin, as this can affect the antibody results.
Why Choose Us
Trusted Liver Testing in Akoka & Beyond
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IgM and IgG Together
Testing both antibodies gives a clear answer on current infection versus immunity.
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Confidential Results
Your results are shared only with you.
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Clear Next Steps
We explain what your result means and whether you need liver tests or vaccination.
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Convenient Walk-In Testing
No fasting and no special preparation — visit us during opening hours.